Chapter 29
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"Are you insane?" Jangles yelled at his guild-mates, the four of them were laying prone in front of his desk. "The Fora Development Group isn't an existence that we can afford to offend!!"
The four of them looked at each other in confusion, the mastermind's face was completely clueless.
"Damn you four idiots, didn't you even bother to research who Q is?" Jangles brought up his hud and immediately de-guilded them. "He's the damn founder of the NPC faction you geniuses!!"
"Get out.. you will have your contracts bought out and receive a severance package." Vice-Leader Sparrow pointed at the door as she spoke. "Any word of this gets out and it will be considered a violation of the NDA you signed." She glanced back at her guild leader, he sat on his desk holding his head in his hands.
"That damn teacher, her students are getting rich off of us!" Jangles slammed his hand on his desk, sending papers flying. "How the hell did that kid become so influential in two weeks? To top it off, an NPC Assassin?"
"Is this why the NPCs seem to flock to him?" What kind of strengths does the class have?" Sparrow had heard the announcement like everyone else. A secret TAP class, no base or subclass attached. "Wouldn't that mean he can't use any base or subclass skills?"
"Or it means he can use all of them." Jangles frowned, if only Crimson Rose wouldn't have screwed it up.
Sparrow smiled as she picked up the papers. "I will personally take good care of Mr. Q when he comes to the banquet. My resources say that he's been enjoying his afternoon with some shopping. It doesn't seem like he is out of sorts."
Jangles walked out of his office, Vice-Leader Sparrow was trailing him. Jangles slowed down, "Miss Sy, I would like you to attend tonight's banquet."
Lara Sy stood and nodded once. "Yes sir, of course."
Sparrow smiled at her, the Wood Elf NPC was definitely the best assistant Jangles could have hired. Sparrow had tried to snatch her away on several occasions.
"Thank you, I know it's out of the ordinary. We need to turn things around and make a good impression on these people." Jangles was sure his assistant would probably find a quiet corner and hide the entire evening.
A few hours later, Q was biting into a large haunch of roasted hog. He closed his eyes and sighed with pleasure. 'Virtual or not, that is some good pig.' Of course eating with one hand was challenging.
Jinn had hugged him for a good two minutes before letting him go, then she had latched onto his hand and refused to release him. Rhapsody would look over and giggle at them every few minutes.
Finally Q leaned over and kissed Jinn on the cheek. "I'm sorry to have worried you so much Jinn." The entire table watched as Jinn blushed and let go of him immediately.
"Doing such things in front of everyone Q!" Jinn scolded him as she grabbed for a glass of water.
"So if no one was watching, it would be fine?" Rhapsody leaned over and threw an arm around her friend. She was a born pot stirrer.
Q laughed and stood up, mission accomplished. "I should go speak with man-woman... I mean Bo Jangles."
Jangles watch Q get up and frowned. He hadn't even bothered to speak all night, he glanced over at his Vice-Leader. "You sure he isn't angry?"
Sparrow watched him through narrowed eyes, "he was smiling all night. He doesn't seem like the kind of person who holds a grudge."
Q noticed that Jangles and his table were watching him, let that bastard wait, he flagged down a waitress and grabbed her last glass of wine. A slender feminine hand reached at the same time. Q looked up and noticed a very pretty brown haired woman with pointed ears. A wood elf maybe? "I'm sorry go ahead." Q bowed his head.
"No, that's fine. Please I don't really need any more wine tonight." Lara Sy cursed her luck, the only glass she grabbed all night and it had the guest of honor on the other end of it.
Q smiled when he heard her captivating voice. 'My happy life has returned!' "Thank you, Miss Lara Sy correct?"
Lara Sy gave him a surprised look, "yes, nice to meet you Mr. Q."
Q was suddenly happy that he had dragged his feet when he first arrived, otherwise he wouldn't have heard Sparrow greet her when she arrived. "It's my pleasure Miss Sy." He bowed and continued toward Jangles table. Sipping his wine, he basked in his ridiculous luck.
Jangles stood and offered him a seat next to Sparrow when Q finally arrived.
"Mr. Q, I'm Vice-Leader Sparrow, it is nice to finally meet you." She smiled as she shook his hand.
Q shook her hand, while making sure to put a stern look on his face. It was difficult, she had very soft hands, and she smelled so nice. "Normally I would say the same thing Vice-Leader Sparrow, but I wonder how long I should put up with Concert Hall's bullying?"
Q's voice carried a steel edge, you could have heard a pin drop. Jinn and Rhapsody were watching from the other side of the hall, it was evident that Q had started something.
"I wonder if you've ever seen a 150 level Holy Knight get angry?" Q had his arms clasped behind his back, his voice carrying into the hall.
"150 Level? Is he talking about that Prince?"
"Wait.. what the hell is a Holy Knight?"
"Damn, are going to war?"
Sparrow swallowed hard and then.. completely froze. The reliable Vice-Leader and Raid Commander was suddenly unable to put two words together. She worked her mouth but nothing came out.
Jangles stared at her in disbelief before jumping in to save her. "Q.. Lets not be rash here. I understand how this looks. Two recent occurrences may make it seem like you are being targeted." Jangles cursed his dogshit luck, even he found it difficult to believe. "Nothing could be further from the truth."
"It's not like I am unreasonable Mr. Jangles. If Concert Hall wants to give restitution to the Fora Development Group, such a thing will be looked upon favorably."
Jangles let out a relieved breathe, when in doubt-try bribing. "Of course Q. We are willing to meet any reasonable request."
"I wonder if you would let me have the contract of Lara Sy." Q smiled pleasantly.
The question met with complete silence.
Jangles face paled noticeably. "You want Lara Sy? She's my assistant! What use could the Fora Development Group have with her?"
Q shrugged, "I think she will fit in nicely in Fora."
Sparrow finally found her words. "Lara Sy is a free contracted NPC. She cannot be ordered to transfer contracts. I can tell you beyond any doubt that she won't willingly go."
Jangles nodded in agreement. "I can't order her to leave, and unfortunately for you she likes it here in Fenway."
Q glanced toward the wall where Miss Sy had been standing. "I wonder if I might have her opinion on this matter. If she refuses then I shall graciously forget the entire unfortunate episode."
Jangles eye's widened in shock and he motioned for Lara Sy to come over.
Lara Sy arrived after a few moments, she blushed slightly at being the center of attention. "Yes Mr. Jangles?"
"Q would like to offer you employment, if you wish to take up his offer I will immediately release you from your contract." Jangles tried to keep a straight face, this was so much easier then bribing.
Lara Sy looked at Q. "I'm sorry Mr. Q, I really enjoy living in Fenway and working for Concert Hall."
Q took a step closer to her when she spoke. He placed a hand on her shoulder dropped his voice to a whisper. "I wonder if Nightingale and the Songbirds would like to find a home with the Fora Development Group?"
Lara stood there silently for a few moment. The eyes of the nearby tables watched her. Did Q have the ability to freeze beautiful young women in place? This was the second time.
Q had stepped away and clasped his hands behind his back. "If that is how you feel Miss Sy, then I can only comply with your wishes." He bowed low to her before turning back to Jangles.
"Wait." Lara Sy cleared her throat and continued. "Mr Jangles, I will be seeking employment with the Fora Development Group. I thank you for being reasonable and flexible with my contract."
"....." Sparrow.
"....." Jangles.
"Well, that settles it then." Q gave Jangles a nearly sincere smile, "as we agreed beforehand, we will treat this matter as an unfortunate accident."
Two hours later a small group had gathered back at the portal. They were joined by Lara Sy and four of her friends.
Jinn watched the newcomers cautiously. Something was off with them. "Is it just me or did Q pull a fast one back there?"
Rhapsody nodded, "you can be assured that he mostly certainly did."
Q showed up last of course, he was hauling a few bags filled with presents. "Sorry for holding everyone up. Since Raven Squad was tasked with other duties today, I had to promise to buy them stuff."
"You better have got them nice things! Daze really wanted to go." Jinn scolded him.
Q smiled and walked toward the portal. "Last one out is a stinky cat!"
"Pfft.. grow up Q!" Rhapsody smiled at Jinn and then ran for the portal. "Not me!!"
A few minutes later Jinn stood in front of her class, they had arrived safely back at the warehouse. " I want to thank everyone for working hard and making this Class trip the best one ever."
Her students cheered and clapped. Even Q didn't pretend this time.
"Also I want to thank my friend Rhapsody for helping us this week, she's really amazing!"
Everyone cheered once again. Q gave the dryad a big hug, as the rest of the students closed in. She really made a lot of friends.
"Also I have a suggestion." Jinn waited until they quieted down before continuing. "It isn't mandatory, just a suggestion. I would like everyone to attend class tomorrow as themselves. You've become friends in TAP, it would be nice if that continued IRL."
The suggest was met with a bit of reluctance. Of course Q clapped, he always came as himself anyways.
"Just think about it everyone.. Thank you so much." Jinn dismissed her class and watched as they exited through the warehouse portal.
"I'm going to log Q." Jinn stood on her tip toes and kissed his cheek.
"Wait for me!" Rhapsody gave Q a quick hug and then walked with Jinn hand in hand to the portal.
Q felt Lara Sy watching him. She waited until Jinn and Rhapsody left before she spoke.
"How did you know who we were?" Lara Sy had a beautiful, one of a kind voice.
"Just call it an important life lesson and leave it at that." Q grinned at them innocently as they gasped in surprise. "You could plot revenge of course, but you know that won't work out." He winked at them as he walked toward the conference table.
Q had discovered something fun, an odd side-effect of being the NPC-Assassin, NPCs absolutely couldn't harm you.
Remmy looked up as Q approached. "Q!!" She charged into him and hugged him tightly. "Remmy is so glad you brought Tal!!"
Looking around Q didn't see Tal. "Where is she?"
"She left about an hour ago." Mojo stepped closer and wrapped him up in a hug. "That woman ... I don't have the words to thank you. She can do everything you said. She is incredible."
Q returned her hug. Mojo's lavender eyes seemed darker as they stared at him. "She is pretty incredible, this is my 'I told you so,' moment.
"I don't see Leah. " Q looked around for his girlfriend, she always seemed to know when he arrived.
"She surveying with Raven Squad," Remmy said with a smile, she thought it was funny that Leah was always kissing Q.
Q nodded. "Activate Hiding in Plain Sight, Foreign Prince."
The Songbirds gasped collectively as Q changed. Even Mojo was somewhat surprised, he wouldn't normally do it in front of strangers.
"Songbirds, come here please." Prince Quinn stood in front of them watching them with dark eyes.
As they lined up in front of him, Remmy and Mojo moved to one side. "Did he say Songbirds?" Remmy whispered.
Mojo nodded, "I believe he did."
"From this day forward you will become the light that leads my way and the blade that guards my back in the darkness. Gone are the days of slinking in sewers and stealing from the coffers of the rich. If you want a kingdom of riches, then join us here in Fora where we are building a Kingdom. If you desire such a thing then say 'I accept.'"
Nightingale bowed her head, "I accept."
Wren bowed her head, "I accept."
Thrush bowed her head, "I accept."
Lark bowed her head, "I accept."
Robin bowed her head, "I accept."
System Message: An elite Shadow Organization has joined your faction.
System Message: Faction Headquarters has been upgraded, new options are available.
System Message: Lara Sy (Nightingale) has become your follower.
System Message: Mai Tavi (Robin) has become your follower.
System Message: Bia Zu (Wren) has become your follower.
System Message: Jo Corona (Thrush) has become your follower.
System Message: May Flower (Lark) has become your follower.
System Message: Raven Squad has been upgraded to Task Force Raven.
"This is Mora Jol, she is the leader of the Fora Development Group. Unless I have a special assignment for you, Mora will give you missions." Prince Quinn gave them a moment to ask questions.
Mojo stepped forward and greeted them. "It is late and you must be tired, please make yourself at home here." Mojo was a rogue herself, she knew exactly what their talents were as soon as they exited the portal. "Make use of the galley and find a bunk that suits you. We can all chat in the morning."
The pink haired gnome smiled up at them, "I'm Remmy! Come with me and I will show you around."
Q watched as Remmy led the Songbirds away. He felt Mojo staring at him. "What?"
"Deactivate first please." Mojo actually preferred Q more than the Foreign Prince.
"Deactivate Hiding in Plain Sight." Q grinned at her. "I took care of Tempered Frost"
Mojo sighed in exasperation, she almost looked angry. "How did you manage that all by yourself?"
Q shrugged, "I posed as one of her Guards and dropped a hairdryer in her bath."
"I've never heard of anyone like you Q." Mojo bit her lip as she exhaled.
"I did good right?" Q was a shameless fisher of compliments.
Mojo nodded, "You are someone who I have taken a liking to. It is my honor to stand by your side."
Q stared at her open mouthed as she turned abruptly and walked away. For the first time all night
he could relate to Vice-Commander Sparrow.
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"Are you insane?" Jangles yelled at his guild-mates, the four of them were laying prone in front of his desk. "The Fora Development Group isn't an existence that we can afford to offend!!"
The four of them looked at each other in confusion, the mastermind's face was completely clueless.
"Damn you four idiots, didn't you even bother to research who Q is?" Jangles brought up his hud and immediately de-guilded them. "He's the damn founder of the NPC faction you geniuses!!"
"Get out.. you will have your contracts bought out and receive a severance package." Vice-Leader Sparrow pointed at the door as she spoke. "Any word of this gets out and it will be considered a violation of the NDA you signed." She glanced back at her guild leader, he sat on his desk holding his head in his hands.
"That damn teacher, her students are getting rich off of us!" Jangles slammed his hand on his desk, sending papers flying. "How the hell did that kid become so influential in two weeks? To top it off, an NPC Assassin?"
"Is this why the NPCs seem to flock to him?" What kind of strengths does the class have?" Sparrow had heard the announcement like everyone else. A secret TAP class, no base or subclass attached. "Wouldn't that mean he can't use any base or subclass skills?"
"Or it means he can use all of them." Jangles frowned, if only Crimson Rose wouldn't have screwed it up.
Sparrow smiled as she picked up the papers. "I will personally take good care of Mr. Q when he comes to the banquet. My resources say that he's been enjoying his afternoon with some shopping. It doesn't seem like he is out of sorts."
Jangles walked out of his office, Vice-Leader Sparrow was trailing him. Jangles slowed down, "Miss Sy, I would like you to attend tonight's banquet."
Lara Sy stood and nodded once. "Yes sir, of course."
Sparrow smiled at her, the Wood Elf NPC was definitely the best assistant Jangles could have hired. Sparrow had tried to snatch her away on several occasions.
"Thank you, I know it's out of the ordinary. We need to turn things around and make a good impression on these people." Jangles was sure his assistant would probably find a quiet corner and hide the entire evening.
A few hours later, Q was biting into a large haunch of roasted hog. He closed his eyes and sighed with pleasure. 'Virtual or not, that is some good pig.' Of course eating with one hand was challenging.
Jinn had hugged him for a good two minutes before letting him go, then she had latched onto his hand and refused to release him. Rhapsody would look over and giggle at them every few minutes.
Finally Q leaned over and kissed Jinn on the cheek. "I'm sorry to have worried you so much Jinn." The entire table watched as Jinn blushed and let go of him immediately.
"Doing such things in front of everyone Q!" Jinn scolded him as she grabbed for a glass of water.
"So if no one was watching, it would be fine?" Rhapsody leaned over and threw an arm around her friend. She was a born pot stirrer.
Q laughed and stood up, mission accomplished. "I should go speak with man-woman... I mean Bo Jangles."
Jangles watch Q get up and frowned. He hadn't even bothered to speak all night, he glanced over at his Vice-Leader. "You sure he isn't angry?"
Sparrow watched him through narrowed eyes, "he was smiling all night. He doesn't seem like the kind of person who holds a grudge."
Q noticed that Jangles and his table were watching him, let that bastard wait, he flagged down a waitress and grabbed her last glass of wine. A slender feminine hand reached at the same time. Q looked up and noticed a very pretty brown haired woman with pointed ears. A wood elf maybe? "I'm sorry go ahead." Q bowed his head.
"No, that's fine. Please I don't really need any more wine tonight." Lara Sy cursed her luck, the only glass she grabbed all night and it had the guest of honor on the other end of it.
Q smiled when he heard her captivating voice. 'My happy life has returned!' "Thank you, Miss Lara Sy correct?"
Lara Sy gave him a surprised look, "yes, nice to meet you Mr. Q."
Q was suddenly happy that he had dragged his feet when he first arrived, otherwise he wouldn't have heard Sparrow greet her when she arrived. "It's my pleasure Miss Sy." He bowed and continued toward Jangles table. Sipping his wine, he basked in his ridiculous luck.
Jangles stood and offered him a seat next to Sparrow when Q finally arrived.
"Mr. Q, I'm Vice-Leader Sparrow, it is nice to finally meet you." She smiled as she shook his hand.
Q shook her hand, while making sure to put a stern look on his face. It was difficult, she had very soft hands, and she smelled so nice. "Normally I would say the same thing Vice-Leader Sparrow, but I wonder how long I should put up with Concert Hall's bullying?"
Q's voice carried a steel edge, you could have heard a pin drop. Jinn and Rhapsody were watching from the other side of the hall, it was evident that Q had started something.
"I wonder if you've ever seen a 150 level Holy Knight get angry?" Q had his arms clasped behind his back, his voice carrying into the hall.
"150 Level? Is he talking about that Prince?"
"Wait.. what the hell is a Holy Knight?"
"Damn, are going to war?"
Sparrow swallowed hard and then.. completely froze. The reliable Vice-Leader and Raid Commander was suddenly unable to put two words together. She worked her mouth but nothing came out.
Jangles stared at her in disbelief before jumping in to save her. "Q.. Lets not be rash here. I understand how this looks. Two recent occurrences may make it seem like you are being targeted." Jangles cursed his dogshit luck, even he found it difficult to believe. "Nothing could be further from the truth."
"It's not like I am unreasonable Mr. Jangles. If Concert Hall wants to give restitution to the Fora Development Group, such a thing will be looked upon favorably."
Jangles let out a relieved breathe, when in doubt-try bribing. "Of course Q. We are willing to meet any reasonable request."
"I wonder if you would let me have the contract of Lara Sy." Q smiled pleasantly.
The question met with complete silence.
Jangles face paled noticeably. "You want Lara Sy? She's my assistant! What use could the Fora Development Group have with her?"
Q shrugged, "I think she will fit in nicely in Fora."
Sparrow finally found her words. "Lara Sy is a free contracted NPC. She cannot be ordered to transfer contracts. I can tell you beyond any doubt that she won't willingly go."
Jangles nodded in agreement. "I can't order her to leave, and unfortunately for you she likes it here in Fenway."
Q glanced toward the wall where Miss Sy had been standing. "I wonder if I might have her opinion on this matter. If she refuses then I shall graciously forget the entire unfortunate episode."
Jangles eye's widened in shock and he motioned for Lara Sy to come over.
Lara Sy arrived after a few moments, she blushed slightly at being the center of attention. "Yes Mr. Jangles?"
"Q would like to offer you employment, if you wish to take up his offer I will immediately release you from your contract." Jangles tried to keep a straight face, this was so much easier then bribing.
Lara Sy looked at Q. "I'm sorry Mr. Q, I really enjoy living in Fenway and working for Concert Hall."
Q took a step closer to her when she spoke. He placed a hand on her shoulder dropped his voice to a whisper. "I wonder if Nightingale and the Songbirds would like to find a home with the Fora Development Group?"
Lara stood there silently for a few moment. The eyes of the nearby tables watched her. Did Q have the ability to freeze beautiful young women in place? This was the second time.
Q had stepped away and clasped his hands behind his back. "If that is how you feel Miss Sy, then I can only comply with your wishes." He bowed low to her before turning back to Jangles.
"Wait." Lara Sy cleared her throat and continued. "Mr Jangles, I will be seeking employment with the Fora Development Group. I thank you for being reasonable and flexible with my contract."
"....." Sparrow.
"....." Jangles.
"Well, that settles it then." Q gave Jangles a nearly sincere smile, "as we agreed beforehand, we will treat this matter as an unfortunate accident."
Two hours later a small group had gathered back at the portal. They were joined by Lara Sy and four of her friends.
Jinn watched the newcomers cautiously. Something was off with them. "Is it just me or did Q pull a fast one back there?"
Rhapsody nodded, "you can be assured that he mostly certainly did."
Q showed up last of course, he was hauling a few bags filled with presents. "Sorry for holding everyone up. Since Raven Squad was tasked with other duties today, I had to promise to buy them stuff."
"You better have got them nice things! Daze really wanted to go." Jinn scolded him.
Q smiled and walked toward the portal. "Last one out is a stinky cat!"
"Pfft.. grow up Q!" Rhapsody smiled at Jinn and then ran for the portal. "Not me!!"
A few minutes later Jinn stood in front of her class, they had arrived safely back at the warehouse. " I want to thank everyone for working hard and making this Class trip the best one ever."
Her students cheered and clapped. Even Q didn't pretend this time.
"Also I want to thank my friend Rhapsody for helping us this week, she's really amazing!"
Everyone cheered once again. Q gave the dryad a big hug, as the rest of the students closed in. She really made a lot of friends.
"Also I have a suggestion." Jinn waited until they quieted down before continuing. "It isn't mandatory, just a suggestion. I would like everyone to attend class tomorrow as themselves. You've become friends in TAP, it would be nice if that continued IRL."
The suggest was met with a bit of reluctance. Of course Q clapped, he always came as himself anyways.
"Just think about it everyone.. Thank you so much." Jinn dismissed her class and watched as they exited through the warehouse portal.
"I'm going to log Q." Jinn stood on her tip toes and kissed his cheek.
"Wait for me!" Rhapsody gave Q a quick hug and then walked with Jinn hand in hand to the portal.
Q felt Lara Sy watching him. She waited until Jinn and Rhapsody left before she spoke.
"How did you know who we were?" Lara Sy had a beautiful, one of a kind voice.
"Just call it an important life lesson and leave it at that." Q grinned at them innocently as they gasped in surprise. "You could plot revenge of course, but you know that won't work out." He winked at them as he walked toward the conference table.
Q had discovered something fun, an odd side-effect of being the NPC-Assassin, NPCs absolutely couldn't harm you.
Remmy looked up as Q approached. "Q!!" She charged into him and hugged him tightly. "Remmy is so glad you brought Tal!!"
Looking around Q didn't see Tal. "Where is she?"
"She left about an hour ago." Mojo stepped closer and wrapped him up in a hug. "That woman ... I don't have the words to thank you. She can do everything you said. She is incredible."
Q returned her hug. Mojo's lavender eyes seemed darker as they stared at him. "She is pretty incredible, this is my 'I told you so,' moment.
"I don't see Leah. " Q looked around for his girlfriend, she always seemed to know when he arrived.
"She surveying with Raven Squad," Remmy said with a smile, she thought it was funny that Leah was always kissing Q.
Q nodded. "Activate Hiding in Plain Sight, Foreign Prince."
The Songbirds gasped collectively as Q changed. Even Mojo was somewhat surprised, he wouldn't normally do it in front of strangers.
"Songbirds, come here please." Prince Quinn stood in front of them watching them with dark eyes.
As they lined up in front of him, Remmy and Mojo moved to one side. "Did he say Songbirds?" Remmy whispered.
Mojo nodded, "I believe he did."
"From this day forward you will become the light that leads my way and the blade that guards my back in the darkness. Gone are the days of slinking in sewers and stealing from the coffers of the rich. If you want a kingdom of riches, then join us here in Fora where we are building a Kingdom. If you desire such a thing then say 'I accept.'"
Nightingale bowed her head, "I accept."
Wren bowed her head, "I accept."
Thrush bowed her head, "I accept."
Lark bowed her head, "I accept."
Robin bowed her head, "I accept."
System Message: An elite Shadow Organization has joined your faction.
System Message: Faction Headquarters has been upgraded, new options are available.
System Message: Lara Sy (Nightingale) has become your follower.
System Message: Mai Tavi (Robin) has become your follower.
System Message: Bia Zu (Wren) has become your follower.
System Message: Jo Corona (Thrush) has become your follower.
System Message: May Flower (Lark) has become your follower.
System Message: Raven Squad has been upgraded to Task Force Raven.
"This is Mora Jol, she is the leader of the Fora Development Group. Unless I have a special assignment for you, Mora will give you missions." Prince Quinn gave them a moment to ask questions.
Mojo stepped forward and greeted them. "It is late and you must be tired, please make yourself at home here." Mojo was a rogue herself, she knew exactly what their talents were as soon as they exited the portal. "Make use of the galley and find a bunk that suits you. We can all chat in the morning."
The pink haired gnome smiled up at them, "I'm Remmy! Come with me and I will show you around."
Q watched as Remmy led the Songbirds away. He felt Mojo staring at him. "What?"
"Deactivate first please." Mojo actually preferred Q more than the Foreign Prince.
"Deactivate Hiding in Plain Sight." Q grinned at her. "I took care of Tempered Frost"
Mojo sighed in exasperation, she almost looked angry. "How did you manage that all by yourself?"
Q shrugged, "I posed as one of her Guards and dropped a hairdryer in her bath."
"I've never heard of anyone like you Q." Mojo bit her lip as she exhaled.
"I did good right?" Q was a shameless fisher of compliments.
Mojo nodded, "You are someone who I have taken a liking to. It is my honor to stand by your side."
Q stared at her open mouthed as she turned abruptly and walked away. For the first time all night
he could relate to Vice-Commander Sparrow.
"Are you insane?" Jangles yelled at his guild-mates, the four of them were laying prone in front of his desk. "The Fora Development Group isn't an existence that we can afford to offend!!"The four of them looked at each other in confusion, the mastermind's face was completely clueless."Damn you four idiots, didn't you even bother to research who Q is?" Jangles brought up his hud and immediately de-guilded them. "He's the damn founder of the NPC faction you geniuses!!""Get out.. you will have your contracts bought out and receive a severance package." Vice-Leader Sparrow pointed at the door as she spoke. "Any word of this gets out and it will be considered a violation of the NDA you signed." She glanced back at her guild leader, he sat on his desk holding his head in his hands."That damn teacher, her students are getting rich off of us!" Jangles slammed his hand on his desk, sending papers flying. "How the hell did that kid become so influential in two weeks? To top it off, an NPC Assassin?""Is this why the NPCs seem to flock to him?" What kind of strengths does the class have?" Sparrow had heard the announcement like everyone else. A secret TAP class, no base or subclass attached. "Wouldn't that mean he can't use any base or subclass skills?""Or it means he can use all of them." Jangles frowned, if only Crimson Rose wouldn't have screwed it up.Sparrow smiled as she picked up the papers. "I will personally take good care of Mr. Q when he comes to the banquet. My resources say that he's been enjoying his afternoon with some shopping. It doesn't seem like he is out of sorts."Jangles walked out of his office, Vice-Leader Sparrow was trailing him. Jangles slowed down, "Miss Sy, I would like you to attend tonight's banquet."Lara Sy stood and nodded once. "Yes sir, of course."Sparrow smiled at her, the Wood Elf NPC was definitely the best assistant Jangles could have hired. Sparrow had tried to snatch her away on several occasions."Thank you, I know it's out of the ordinary. We need to turn things around and make a good impression on these people." Jangles was sure his assistant would probably find a quiet corner and hide the entire evening.A few hours later, Q was biting into a large haunch of roasted hog. He closed his eyes and sighed with pleasure. 'Virtual or not, that is some good pig.' Of course eating with one hand was challenging.Jinn had hugged him for a good two minutes before letting him go, then she had latched onto his hand and refused to release him. Rhapsody would look over and giggle at them every few minutes.Finally Q leaned over and kissed Jinn on the cheek. "I'm sorry to have worried you so much Jinn." The entire table watched as Jinn blushed and let go of him immediately."Doing such things in front of everyone Q!" Jinn scolded him as she grabbed for a glass of water."So if no one was watching, it would be fine?" Rhapsody leaned over and threw an arm around her friend. She was a born pot stirrer.Q laughed and stood up, mission accomplished. "I should go speak with man-woman... I mean Bo Jangles."Jangles watch Q get up and frowned. He hadn't even bothered to speak all night, he glanced over at his Vice-Leader. "You sure he isn't angry?"Sparrow watched him through narrowed eyes, "he was smiling all night. He doesn't seem like the kind of person who holds a grudge."Q noticed that Jangles and his table were watching him, let that bastard wait, he flagged down a waitress and grabbed her last glass of wine. A slender feminine hand reached at the same time. Q looked up and noticed a very pretty brown haired woman with pointed ears. A wood elf maybe? "I'm sorry go ahead." Q bowed his head."No, that's fine. Please I don't really need any more wine tonight." Lara Sy cursed her luck, the only glass she grabbed all night and it had the guest of honor on the other end of it.Q smiled when he heard her captivating voice. 'My happy life has returned!' "Thank you, Miss Lara Sy correct?"Lara Sy gave him a surprised look, "yes, nice to meet you Mr. Q."Q was suddenly happy that he had dragged his feet when he first arrived, otherwise he wouldn't have heard Sparrow greet her when she arrived. "It's my pleasure Miss Sy." He bowed and continued toward Jangles table. Sipping his wine, he basked in his ridiculous luck.Jangles stood and offered him a seat next to Sparrow when Q finally arrived."Mr. Q, I'm Vice-Leader Sparrow, it is nice to finally meet you." She smiled as she shook his hand.Q shook her hand, while making sure to put a stern look on his face. It was difficult, she had very soft hands, and she smelled so nice. "Normally I would say the same thing Vice-Leader Sparrow, but I wonder how long I should put up with Concert Hall's bullying?"Q's voice carried a steel edge, you could have heard a pin drop. Jinn and Rhapsody were watching from the other side of the hall, it was evident that Q had started something."I wonder if you've ever seen a 150 level Holy Knight get angry?" Q had his arms clasped behind his back, his voice carrying into the hall."150 Level? Is he talking about that Prince?""Wait.. what the hell is a Holy Knight?""Damn, are going to war?"Sparrow swallowed hard and then.. completely froze. The reliable Vice-Leader and Raid Commander was suddenly unable to put two words together. She worked her mouth but nothing came out.Jangles stared at her in disbelief before jumping in to save her. "Q.. Lets not be rash here. I understand how this looks. Two recent occurrences may make it seem like you are being targeted." Jangles cursed his dogshit luck, even he found it difficult to believe. "Nothing could be further from the truth.""It's not like I am unreasonable Mr. Jangles. If Concert Hall wants to give restitution to the Fora Development Group, such a thing will be looked upon favorably."Jangles let out a relieved breathe, when in doubt-try bribing. "Of course Q. We are willing to meet any reasonable request.""I wonder if you would let me have the contract of Lara Sy." Q smiled pleasantly.The question met with complete silence.Jangles face paled noticeably. "You want Lara Sy? She's my assistant! What use could the Fora Development Group have with her?"Q shrugged, "I think she will fit in nicely in Fora."Sparrow finally found her words. "Lara Sy is a free contracted NPC. She cannot be ordered to transfer contracts. I can tell you beyond any doubt that she won't willingly go."Jangles nodded in agreement. "I can't order her to leave, and unfortunately for you she likes it here in Fenway."Q glanced toward the wall where Miss Sy had been standing. "I wonder if I might have her opinion on this matter. If she refuses then I shall graciously forget the entire unfortunate episode."Jangles eye's widened in shock and he motioned for Lara Sy to come over.Lara Sy arrived after a few moments, she blushed slightly at being the center of attention. "Yes Mr. Jangles?""Q would like to offer you employment, if you wish to take up his offer I will immediately release you from your contract." Jangles tried to keep a straight face, this was so much easier then bribing.Lara Sy looked at Q. "I'm sorry Mr. Q, I really enjoy living in Fenway and working for Concert Hall."Q took a step closer to her when she spoke. He placed a hand on her shoulder dropped his voice to a whisper. "I wonder if Nightingale and the Songbirds would like to find a home with the Fora Development Group?"Lara stood there silently for a few moment. The eyes of the nearby tables watched her. Did Q have the ability to freeze beautiful young women in place? This was the second time.Q had stepped away and clasped his hands behind his back. "If that is how you feel Miss Sy, then I can only comply with your wishes." He bowed low to her before turning back to Jangles."Wait." Lara Sy cleared her throat and continued. "Mr Jangles, I will be seeking employment with the Fora Development Group. I thank you for being reasonable and flexible with my contract.""....." Sparrow."....." Jangles."Well, that settles it then." Q gave Jangles a nearly sincere smile, "as we agreed beforehand, we will treat this matter as an unfortunate accident."Two hours later a small group had gathered back at the portal. They were joined by Lara Sy and four of her friends.Jinn watched the newcomers cautiously. Something was off with them. "Is it just me or did Q pull a fast one back there?"Rhapsody nodded, "you can be assured that he mostly certainly did."Q showed up last of course, he was hauling a few bags filled with presents. "Sorry for holding everyone up. Since Raven Squad was tasked with other duties today, I had to promise to buy them stuff.""You better have got them nice things! Daze really wanted to go." Jinn scolded him.Q smiled and walked toward the portal. "Last one out is a stinky cat!""Pfft.. grow up Q!" Rhapsody smiled at Jinn and then ran for the portal. "Not me!!"A few minutes later Jinn stood in front of her class, they had arrived safely back at the warehouse. " I want to thank everyone for working hard and making this Class trip the best one ever."Her students cheered and clapped. Even Q didn't pretend this time."Also I want to thank my friend Rhapsody for helping us this week, she's really amazing!"Everyone cheered once again. Q gave the dryad a big hug, as the rest of the students closed in. She really made a lot of friends."Also I have a suggestion." Jinn waited until they quieted down before continuing. "It isn't mandatory, just a suggestion. I would like everyone to attend class tomorrow as themselves. You've become friends in TAP, it would be nice if that continued IRL."The suggest was met with a bit of reluctance. Of course Q clapped, he always came as himself anyways."Just think about it everyone.. Thank you so much." Jinn dismissed her class and watched as they exited through the warehouse portal."I'm going to log Q." Jinn stood on her tip toes and kissed his cheek."Wait for me!" Rhapsody gave Q a quick hug and then walked with Jinn hand in hand to the portal.Q felt Lara Sy watching him. She waited until Jinn and Rhapsody left before she spoke."How did you know who we were?" Lara Sy had a beautiful, one of a kind voice."Just call it an important life lesson and leave it at that." Q grinned at them innocently as they gasped in surprise. "You could plot revenge of course, but you know that won't work out." He winked at them as he walked toward the conference table.Q had discovered something fun, an odd side-effect of being the NPC-Assassin, NPCs absolutely couldn't harm you.Remmy looked up as Q approached. "Q!!" She charged into him and hugged him tightly. "Remmy is so glad you brought Tal!!"Looking around Q didn't see Tal. "Where is she?""She left about an hour ago." Mojo stepped closer and wrapped him up in a hug. "That woman ... I don't have the words to thank you. She can do everything you said. She is incredible."Q returned her hug. Mojo's lavender eyes seemed darker as they stared at him. "She is pretty incredible, this is my 'I told you so,' moment."I don't see Leah. " Q looked around for his girlfriend, she always seemed to know when he arrived."She surveying with Raven Squad," Remmy said with a smile, she thought it was funny that Leah was always kissing Q.Q nodded. "Activate Hiding in Plain Sight, Foreign Prince."The Songbirds gasped collectively as Q changed. Even Mojo was somewhat surprised, he wouldn't normally do it in front of strangers."Songbirds, come here please." Prince Quinn stood in front of them watching them with dark eyes.As they lined up in front of him, Remmy and Mojo moved to one side. "Did he say Songbirds?" Remmy whispered.Mojo nodded, "I believe he did.""From this day forward you will become the light that leads my way and the blade that guards my back in the darkness. Gone are the days of slinking in sewers and stealing from the coffers of the rich. If you want a kingdom of riches, then join us here in Fora where we are building a Kingdom. If you desire such a thing then say 'I accept.'"Nightingale bowed her head, "I accept."Wren bowed her head, "I accept."Thrush bowed her head, "I accept."Lark bowed her head, "I accept."Robin bowed her head, "I accept."System Message: An elite Shadow Organization has joined your faction.System Message: Faction Headquarters has been upgraded, new options are available.System Message: Lara Sy Nightingale has become your follower.System Message: Mai Tavi Robin has become your follower.System Message: Bia Zu Wren has become your follower.System Message: Jo Corona Thrush has become your follower.System Message: May Flower Lark has become your follower.System Message: Raven Squad has been upgraded to Task Force Raven."This is Mora Jol, she is the leader of the Fora Development Group. Unless I have a special assignment for you, Mora will give you missions." Prince Quinn gave them a moment to ask questions.Mojo stepped forward and greeted them. "It is late and you must be tired, please make yourself at home here." Mojo was a rogue herself, she knew exactly what their talents were as soon as they exited the portal. "Make use of the galley and find a bunk that suits you. We can all chat in the morning."The pink haired gnome smiled up at them, "I'm Remmy! Come with me and I will show you around."Q watched as Remmy led the Songbirds away. He felt Mojo staring at him. "What?""Deactivate first please." Mojo actually preferred Q more than the Foreign Prince."Deactivate Hiding in Plain Sight." Q grinned at her. "I took care of Tempered Frost"Mojo sighed in exasperation, she almost looked angry. "How did you manage that all by yourself?"Q shrugged, "I posed as one of her Guards and dropped a hairdryer in her bath.""I've never heard of anyone like you Q." Mojo bit her lip as she exhaled."I did good right?" Q was a shameless fisher of compliments.Mojo nodded, "You are someone who I have taken a liking to. It is my honor to stand by your side."Q stared at her open mouthed as she turned abruptly and walked away. For the first time all nighthe could relate to Vice-Commander Sparrow.
